Migration Centre of Australia

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  • April 29, 2020

Your quick guide to Visitor Visas (and what to do during COVID-19)

A visitor visa (subclass 600) is a temporary visa that you can use to visit your family and friends. This visa has replaced the following visas the Tourist visa (subclass 676), Sponsored Family Visitor visa (subclass 679), Business Visa (Short Stay) (subclass 456) and Sponsored Business Visitor Visa (Short Stay) (subclass 459). If you currently hold one of these visas, it will still be valid for the period you were given when the visa was granted. There are currently 6 streams you can apply for under the Visitor Visa: Tourist stream (apply in Australia) – you may be granted stay in Australia for up to 12 months Tourist stream (apply outside Australia) – you may be granted stay in Australia for 3, 6 or even 12 months Sponsored family stream – your family member who is an Australia citizen or permanent resident can sponsor you and you may be granted stay in Australia for up to 12 months Business visitor stream – you can make a short business trip and stay in Australia for up to 3 months Approved Destination Status stream – this allows citizens of the People’s Republic of China visit Australia through an organised tour group and their period of stay will be specified in the grant letter Frequent traveller stream – you may be granted stay in Australia for up to 10 years and stay in Australia for up to 3 months each time you visit How long can I stay? This visa will allow you to stay in Australia for a specific period of time that will be determined based on your reason to stay in Australia and for how long you want to stay in Australia. As each case is determined on an individual basis, you may or may not always get the length of stay that you have asked for. Nevertheless, with a visitor visa you may be granted multiple entries in Australia with this visa (or a single entry). If you are granted a multiple entry visitor visa this means that you may leave Australia and then come back as many times as you want, of course only while your visitor visa is valid. If you are granted a single entry visitor visa, you will not be able to re-enter once you leave Australia. How do I extend my visitor visa? Unfortunately, once your visitor visa expires, you will be unable to renew or extend it. You will need to apply for another visa. Also, if you have a condition attached to your visa, such as condition 8503 which prevents further stay, there are limited circumstances in which you may be able to request a waiver of this condition. Depending on what stream of the visitor visa you apply for, you may be subject to different visa conditions. It is important that you understand what these conditions mean and how it can impact your stay in Australia. I need help with my Visitor Visa At Migration Centre of Australia, we have been trusted by our clients throughout the years to help them find their way in Australia. Our Registered Migration Agents are known in the industry for their expertise and knowledge in Visitor Visas and are constantly monitoring legislative updates, especially during this pandemic, to ensure that they are always one step ahead. If you wish to apply for a visitor visa, or you want to know more about the different stream, or are currently on a Visitor Visa (subclass 600) and you need help in extending your stay in Australia during this pandemic, or you simply require professional migration advice regarding your visa status, contact us today on 02 4626 1002 or send us an email at info@migrationcentreofaustralia.com.au and one of our migration agents will be ready to assist.
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  • April 28, 2020

Australia Top Education Providers for Migration Agents

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Australia has been recognized as one of the few countries that has a large opportunity for various migration schemes. There are two major programs officially that sets you into the migration system of Australia which are listed below; Skilled and Family Migrants Humanitarian program for refugees etc From records, its shown that each year, the government has a capping of about 190,000  positions which seem high for allocations for the two source of migration, however majority of the allocated quotas goes to the Skilled Migration as they are well designed to attract a lot of talents into the country. These talents are able to reduce the level of skill shortages in the various communities, thereby enhancing the growth of the economy. Most of the applicants interested in this scheme are not well aware of all the processes involved and would always   seek for assistance, hence the need for an agent. A registered migration agent will be able to attend to all enquirers as related to these, as they all have the potential and ability to handle all various visa related requests as the case may be. All seeking individuals have different cases and their peculiarities, as such all agents will be liable to attend to them. All migration agents are expected to be registered with MARA, MARA is the licensed body that governs all activities of Migration agents in Australia. As a migration agent, you need to be updated with your CPD requirements which is the annual 10points and renewable every year. Under the CPD requirements, we have two categories as designed by MARA that will accommodate all various types of the training. Category A includes the webinar and face to face workshop, while the category B includes the private study and seminars. Here in Mckkrs, as a leading Education provider in Migration, we have all flexible arrangements in place in ensuring you are able to achieve your points within the year, despite your busy schedules and appointments with your clients. This program runs throughout the year, our well-presented and qualified professionals will deliver trainings as approved by MARA. Get in touch with us today on our website www.Mckkrs.com.au and book for your various CPD points. You can also speak to our friendly CPD team on 02- 46261002 or email to us any enquirers on admin@mckkrs.com.au [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
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  • April 24, 2020

Partner Visa Eligibility 2020 during COVID-19

There are two types of Partner visas – temporary (subclass 820) and permanent (subclass 801). The objective of the Partner visa is to allow the partner or spouse of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. The first step to permanent residency is holding a Partner visa 820. As you know, the corona virus pandemic (COVID-19) is fast becoming an international social, economic and health problem. In Australia, this has seen to the implementation of banning international travelers who wish to enter Australia. This has had a domino effect where travel bans are being considered for individuals who are arriving from other countries where there are significant increases in corona virus cases. The Australian Government announced on 12 March 2020 that there will be travel restrictions imposed on all travelers arriving in Australia from any part of mainland China, Iran, Republic of Korea and Italy. However, the Department of Home Affairs website states that the immediate family members of Australian citizens and permanent residents will still be able to enter the country and this includes spouses, legal guardians or minor dependents. Yet, reports show that despite this exception, this has created problems for some individuals who are the spouse or partner of an Australian citizen or permanent resident as their visas have been cancelled whilst offshore and were subsequently denied entry into Australia. The visa cancellation can have severe ramifications for the visa holder, for example, to revoke the cancellation of the visa, the visa holder must submit an application within 28 days of their visa being cancelled and they must show evidence of compelling and compassionate grounds for their visa to be restored. The visa holder may have to wait weeks or even months for an answer, given this world-wide epidemic, and this can be very distressing for couples and families. Not only this, a visa cancellation on your record can affect your chances in applying for a visa anywhere else in the world. Alarmingly, this has been an issue that the Department of Home Affairs or the Australian Government has not yet commented on and is a concern that we and our migration agents are keeping a close eye on. How am I Affected in 2020? Other than the travel restrictions, not much has changed for the Partner visa since 2019. The only major development would be the rise in cost. Before July 2019, the cost of a Partner visa was $7,160. Entering 2020, this cost has risen to $7,715 making it one of the most expensive visa types in Australia and in the world. Depending on an announcement from the Department of Home Affairs, we might expect another price increase once we reach July this year. As of 18 March 2020, the processing time for the Partner visa (820) ranges between 26 to 31 months, and the processing time for the Partner visa (801) ranges from 11 to 22 months. Of course, these times may fluctuate and it will dependent on how thorough you fill or provide information that is needed for your application. If you’re thinking about applying for the Partner visa, it’s important that you seek professional migration advice from one of our Registered Migration Agents now in order to determine your eligibility to apply for the visa, and also to avoid any major delays or unprecedented changes that may be implemented any time soon. We are highly experienced in the preparation and submission of Partner visas and we are ready to help you every step of the way. At Migration Centre of Australia we understand the difficulty of navigating your way around the migration system especially given the current circumstances. Don’t leave your matter waiting and call us today to discuss on 02 4626 1002 or book an appointment for a consultation with one of our migration agents.
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  • April 21, 2020

Holiday Makers in Australia Can Extend Their Duration

Are you on a Working Holiday in Australia? If yes, then this News is for you. Recently the Australian Government announced changes to the Working Holiday Maker visa program to assist bush fire recovery for affected communities throughout Australia.  These changes are aimed at working holiday makers being included in bush fire recovery at declared disaster areas or other eligible localities designated as ‘specified work’. What is Working Holiday Maker Visa Program? How does this Affect Me? The Working Holiday Maker visa program comprises Working Holiday Visa subclass 417, and Work and Holiday Visa subclass 462, which allows young adults from eligible countries to have an extended holiday in Australia while being able to work here to fund their trip. Working Holiday Maker visas allow the visa holder to stay in Australia for up to 12 months and undertake ‘specified work’ on a short-term basis. These visas can granted up to three times, however if you have previously been in Australia on a Working Holiday Maker visa you must have undertaken 3 months of specified work during your first visa to become eligible for a second visa.  To become eligible for a third visa you must have undertaken 6 months of specified work during your second visa. Under the current changes the Department is allowing Working Holiday Maker visa holders assisting in bush fire recovery to undertake work, including paid work, with the same employer for up to 12 months.  Moreover, this work will be considered as ‘specified work’ making you eligible for the next working holiday maker visa. Book your consultation with us if you want to know more about this visa program or if are seeking assistance with your current situation. You can make an appointment with our Registered Migration Agents by calling 02 46261002 or email info@migrationcentreofaustralia.com.au
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  • April 16, 2020

Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) – Migration Center of Australia

Welcome to Australia! Are you a tourist wanting to claim GST (Goods and Services Tax) or WET (Wine Equalization Tax) refund for some shopping or gifts you’ve bought in Australia that you’d like to bring back home? Here’s some important information you need to know! According to the Australian Border Force ABF you must be prepared to take all your goods on board as carry-on luggage; spend at least AUD 300 (including Goods and Services Tax (GST)) in total from a supplier with the same Australian Business Number (ABN); buy goods within 60 days of departure; get a valid paper tax invoice in English with only your name as it appears in your passport if the invoice is $1,000 or more with a description of the goods that allows us to match the goods to the invoice, the retailer’s name, address and ABN; the amount of GST or WET paid (or total price including GST) and date of purchase. Oversized and restricted goods need to be sighted by ABF before checking in. There are also strict restrictions on what you cannot do such as get a cash refund; use photocopied, reprint or duplicate invoices or ship goods separately. As well you cannot claim when it is less than 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time at a domestic airport or make claims online; before the day of departure; or after you leave Australia. Some other  restrictions include tobacco and tobacco products; dangerous goods which are prohibited on an aircraft or ship for safety reasons; liquids, gas cylinders and fireworks; goods wholly or partially consumed in Australia. Goods purchased with gift cards or vouchers are eligible for a refund if all TRS requirements are met. Unaccompanied, freighted and posted goods will not be eligible unless the goods are being exported to an External Australian Territory by a resident of that territory. Always check with your airline carrier or cruise liner what you can or cannot take onboard. You should also make sure the description on the invoice for your goods match correctly and print out all electronic invoices before you head to the airport. For a comprehensive understanding contact our Registered Migration Agents on 0246261002 or email info@migrationcentreofaustralia.com.au.  We have some of the best immigration agents in Sydney so don’t miss out, call us and find out if you are eligible for a TRS refund.
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  • April 16, 2020

COVID-19 and New Arrangements for Former Student Visa and Visitor Visa Holders

The World Health Organization (WHO) Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) declaration has had a significant impact on Australia and its economy. Now entering its sixth week the ban is significantly impacting Australia’s higher education sector. Australian educational institutions are working with students to ensure there are minimal disruptions to courses.  Many universities and some secondary schools are utilizing online learning platforms and live streaming to allow students to participate in classes. New legislation introduced in regards to former student (subclass 500) visa holders and visitor visa (subclass 600) holders apply only if their respective visas were cancelled due to PHEIC – public health emergency of international concern i.e. corona virus. IMPACT ON FORMER STUDENT VISA HOLDERS Applicants can now lodge paper applications, in addition to online applications, if the applicant receives an email from DOHA outlining the application procedure.  The application is lodged by midnight on the day after the email was received according to instructions in the email. If the applicant is outside Australia, application may be made at a Commonwealth diplomatic or consular office. If applicants are in Australia and reapply for a student visa within 3 months after the cancellation of their first visa, the visa application charge (AUD $620) will be waived. IMPACT ON FORMER VISITOR VISA HOLDERS Applicants must lodge a paper-based application if the following apply. Currently in Australia and make the application within 3 months after the cancellation of their first visa. Submit on the approved form according to the directions specified in the email received from DOHA.  If applicants are in Australia and reapply for a visitor visa within 3 months after the cancellation of their first visa, the visa application charge (AUD $365) will be waived. Contact our Registered Migration Agents at Migration Centre of Australia on 02 46261002 or email infor@migrationcentreofaustralia.com.au if you need assistance with any visa queries.  We have some of the best visa agents in Sydney who will be pleased to help you
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  • April 14, 2020

Skilled Visas_Changes in ACS Skills Assessment Guidelines

ARE YOU A PROSPECTIVE MIGRANT ICT PROFESSIONAL?  RECENT CHANGES TO THE AUSTRALIAN COMPUTER SOCIETY (ACS) GUIDELINES MAY AFFECT YOU The relevant skills assessment authority for skilled migration to Australia in the ICT sector is the Australian Computer Society (ACS). It ensures that you meet the relevant standards needed for employment in an eligible ICT skilled occupation by assessing your academic qualifications and work experience. Before submitting your application to the ACS you must check the eligibility criteria, assessment process, and list of required documents outlined in the ACS Skills Assessment Guidelines. Recent changes were made towards the end of 2019 Changes to the ACS Migration Skills Assessment Guidelines Ethical standards  As an ICT professional you are now required to meet ethical standards specified by the ACS when submitting your skills assessment application. Your application may be rejected if you submit a bogus document or make unsubstantiated claims about your skills, knowledge or experience. You may also be barred from re-submitting an application.  It is important therefore to prepare your application carefully and correctly. Documents Required Evidence of qualifications such as the degree, certificate or award stating title of degree; certificate, award; name of University/ Institution; date of completion of the degree, certificate, award; degree, certificate, award transcript units/ subject names and grades/ marks achieved;  are required as well as the following documents. Evidence of employment and payment for employment; Updated Resume/ Curriculum Vitae; Evidence of change of name (if applicable); Migration agent authorisation form (if applicable); Passport Evidence of Employment When providing your employment experience you must show your “Australia” and “Outside of Australia” work experiences separately. Your employment reference letters must include your position title and earlier roles or duties you may have performed for the same employer; start and finish dates of employment; description of duties and responsibilities; nature of employment whether full-time or part-time indicating number of hours worked per week and country where employment was undertaken. ACS accept digital signatures on company letterhead, of authorised persons who can be verified, as valid evidence of employment. ACS does not specify a particular format for employer reference letters however submitting all information requested increases your chances of getting a positive assessment. Evidence of payment for employment All applications to the ACS must be accompanied by at least two different types of documents regarding payment during the period of your employment covering the beginning and end of each year. Please note cash payments are not adequate to prove payment was made towards employment. Evidence of payment for employment will only be accepted if it states your name and your employer’s name as well as the following Official government tax records; or Payslips; or Employment linked insurance/ superannuation; or Bank statements showing salary payments deposited by the employer. Region Specific Requirements The ACS has introduced certain region specific requirements regarding educational qualifications for the following countries – Pakistan, People’s Republic of China, Philippines and signatories to the Bologna agreement. Further changes have been made to accept work experience only from employers who are registered with specified financial institutions in specified countries. If you are from any of these countries you may have to submit particular documents for consideration by the ACS. Statutory Declarations and Affidavits ASC has further excluded acceptance of declarations not witnessed on the same day and employment letters comprising responsibilities and experience copied directly from ANZSCO job descriptions. Additionally Statutory Declarations and Affidavits are not acceptable as a substitute for genuine employment reference letters. ACS however has the discretion to accept or reject such documents for assessment. If you do not submit all the required documents ACS may assess your skills as being not assessable due to insufficient documentation. Consequently you may have to seek a review, or appeal the ACS decision or apply for another assessment. ACS has also introduced changes regarding assessment criteria of academic qualifications. If you want a comprehensive skills assessment with our Registered Migration Agents we have some of the best immigration agents in Sydney. We also have visa agents in Campbelltown waiting to assist you. Call us on 02 46261002 or email info@migrationcentreofaustralia.com.au.
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  • April 6, 2020

Child Visa – Human Touch

Child Visa – Subclass 802 What do you do when you have a child overseas? What if the child is over 18? You may be able to apply for a Child Visa based on individual circumstances even if the child is over 18 years old. Read the case below to understand how we assisted one particular child in obtaining this visa.  This case was referred to us by a lawyer who knows we have some of the best immigration agents in Sydney and take care of situations that require strategic handling of sensitive matters. A case about the wellbeing of your children: Not too long ago we started handling a case for a Child Visa (let’s call her Emily). Emily’s parents got divorced when she was still quite young and the custody was given to her mother. Although the father was consistently involved in her life, he moved to Australia and the mother got remarried. This is when Emily started to experience emotional and sexual abuse from her step-father and her mother was unable to protect her due to being abused and reliant on Emily’s step-father herself. Emily’s father always kept in touch and was able to financially support her to live away from home to avoid the abuse. Somehow the step-father found out where Emily lived and started to stalk her, at which point the police got involved. Because he was her step-father and Emily was in custody of his wife (the mother), he had parental rights and so would not necessarily be considered stalking. At this point the father called Emily to Australia on a Working Holiday Visa so she could spend time with him, his new wife (step-mother) and her half siblings. Emily started to recover and at this point the lawyer reached out to us and explained the matter. Although a difficult case as Emily is now over 18 years old (considered an adult), we had to find grounds to safely and legally keep her in Australia. At this point we prepared for a Child visa and showed that the relationship between Emily and her father was biological, continuing and most of all genuine. There was a constant dependence from Emily for the emotional and financial support from her father. Not only this, she also had a great relation with her step-mother and half siblings in addition to having a biological parent in Australia. After multiple enquiries from the case office and requesting evidence they granted the visa based on the circumstances. Although not straight forward as Emily was over 18, had come to Australia on a Working Holiday Visa (which shows independence) and not having legal custody, we were able to assist her in obtaining a Child visa through significant legal research and evidence to assist the case officer in making their decision. When dealing with cases it is easy to get emotionally invested, especially for matters as sensitive as this. We were glad to have achieved a positive outcome and thank the Department of Home Affairs for their human touch in such cases.  Let our visa agents in Sydney help you too. If you are facing a visa refusal or visa cancellation call us now. You can make an appointment with our Registered Migration Agents by calling 02 46261002 or email info@migrationcentreofaustralia.com.au
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  • April 1, 2020

Australia Top Ten for education and work opportunities in Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Australia is in the top ten worldwide when it comes to attracting global talent according to the latest 2020 Global Talent Competitiveness Index (GCTI). Cities in the top tiers have demonstrated a readiness to undertake activities that promote and develop AI hubs. Sydney ranks eleven; Melbourne twenty one; Brisbane forty three. The 2020 GCTI report is focussed on Global Talent in the Age of Artificial Intelligence. AI is now the game changer in every industry and sector in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The index also identifies competitiveness for global talent in other areas including innovation and leadership as well as academic researchers, scientists and engineers. Current education and skills acquisition and formal and informal learning structures will need to evolve in order to meet the needs created by an AI world.  Australia is recognised as a leader in formal education as well as in attracting global talent. The federal government has introduced a new skilled migration stream that will fast track visas for 5000 of the world’s best and brightest every year with the aim of establishing innovative and cutting edge high tech industries in Australia. Immigration Minister David Coleman launched the Global Talent Independent Program in November 2019. The program offers a priority visa pathway for highly skilled individuals to work and live permanently in Australia. At Migration Centre of Australia we are experienced in handling highly complex matters. You can make an appointment with our immigration agents in Sydney by calling 0246261002 or email info@migrationcentreofaustralia.com.au.
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Migration Centre of Australia (MCA) Your trusted partner for Australian immigration. We simplify visas, skilled migration, sponsorships, and more—so you can focus on your future.

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